Former President Barack Obama endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president on Friday, just days after she launched her campaign following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race.
In a heartfelt video, Obama expressed his strong support for Harris. “Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and to do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office,” he said, as the video showed Harris receiving the call from the Obamas. This endorsement marks a significant moment, as it comes from the nation’s first Black president to a candidate who could become the first female president.
Michelle Obama also shared her support in the approximately one-minute video: “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you. This is going to be historic.” The former First Lady’s words emphasized the historic nature of Harris’s candidacy and the personal bond between the Obamas and Harris.
Obama and Harris have maintained close contact since she announced her candidacy on Sunday. According to four people familiar with their discussions, Obama has been privately supportive, offering guidance and encouragement. “He has been in regular contact with her and thinks she’s been off to a great start,” one source noted, highlighting Obama’s active role in backing Harris’s campaign.
Aides to Obama and Harris have been discussing the possibility of the former president and vice president appearing together on the campaign trail. Three individuals familiar with these discussions mentioned that such an appearance could happen at some point during the campaign, signaling a united front and strong endorsement from key Democratic figures.
Previously, Obama had supported Biden’s re-election bid but had expressed concerns about Biden’s prospects in the upcoming November election, especially after Biden’s lackluster debate performance in late 2023. These concerns played a part in Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race.
When Biden announced his withdrawal on Sunday, he immediately endorsed Harris, throwing his full support behind her. This move quickly rallied Democrats around Harris, with the party coalescing in a show of unity and determination to support her candidacy.
